NEVADA, Mo. (AP) _ Folks in the western Missouri city of Nevada are getting the chance to make examples of themselves when it comes to health and wellness.

The town is embarking on an initiative to improve the health of its citizens and the quality of health care they receive.

The Kansas City-based health care technology company Cerner is teaming up with local officials on the initiative. The city's hospital will spend $10 million on an electronic medical records system that will allow information to be shared with the town's two dozen doctors and medical experts in bigger cities.

An educational campaign will promote better nutrition and health screenings, while residents will compete in fitness challenges like walking and weight-loss contests.

The effort is similar to programs tried in states like Minnesota and Iowa.